The ancient city of Rethymno (Ρέθυμνο, also written as Rethimno or Rethymnon) dates back to the Minoan period (2700 - 1450 BCE) and was a key port for Crete’s Venetian conquerors from the 13th to the 18th centuries AD. With a stunning Old Town and local festivals such the carnival at the beginning of Lent and the Renaissance festival from July to September, there’s plenty to discover on a trip to Rethymno!